In 1853, a series of unusual disturbances reported along Quaker Road in Cork city drew widespread local attention. The events appear to have centred on properties adjoining the Quaker burial ground, an area long associated with the Religious Society of Friends.

The incidents were said to follow the recent death of an elderly woman belonging to the Quaker community. According to accounts at the time, she had died after a short illness and was buried in the Quaker cemetery. However, rumours circulated that she had wished instead to be interred in the grounds of St Fin Barre’s Cathedral. Whether this claim had any basis in fact is unclear, but it became closely linked to the strange occurrences that followed.

The disturbances began with reports of stones being thrown onto the roof of a cottage near the cemetery. Witnesses described a sustained and violent barrage that continued intermittently throughout the night. Despite the intensity of the activity, no source for the stones could be identified.

As news spread, curiosity grew. People from the surrounding area began gathering in hopes of witnessing whatever was responsible.

One account describes a figure seen seated astride a chimney on Quaker Road. The witness claimed the figure was dressed in a striking red garment, with a dark covering over its head, and remained visible long enough to be clearly observed.

On the following day, another sighting was reported. A young girl passing the cemetery claimed to have seen a figure standing among the graves. This time, the appearance was different: the figure was described as dressed in white, with long flowing garments. According to her account, it raised its hand and beckoned three times, as if attempting to communicate.

Further reports of stone-throwing continued for a time, though no additional clear sightings of the figure were recorded.